The Narrow Fabric Building, as it has long been known, c. 1928, was the home of the Narrow Fabric Company, initially a subsidiary of Textile Machine Works of Wyomissing. The B2 Bistro + Bar attempts to adaptively reuse as much of the existing architecture of the new Narrows Fabric Building as possible to support its mission of establishing a vibrant and unique dining experience. Amazingly, the structure experienced no transitional uses since the original function vacated the premises. Immediately aware of the contextual richness of the space and something of a rare opportunity, the design sets out to retain the architecture’s visceral connection with the past; that is, to not “refresh” the patina of history. The interior design sets out to highlight the space’s witness to the past with a sense of reverence.

The hospitality program is laid out to promote visual connection between functions and maximize daylight throughout an open plan. Private dining areas are created using original and new glazed and beadboard wood panel partitions. New partitions are faithfully detailed and fabricated to accurately replicate the original construction; the difference being new surfaces received paint, where original have not. Closed-up window conditions along an exterior wall were reopened and fenestrated with large, rolling, glazed doors that connect the interior dining spaces with an outdoor dining deck.

Plaster, wood, brick masonry, and steel surfaces associated with walls, columns, beams, and ceilings were scraped of loose flaking paint, cleaned of soot, and were simply sealed. Concrete floors were patched and leveled, sealed, and waxed. One hundred original spun steel pendant light fixtures were restored and reinstalled within a new planning grid. Door frames, doors, and hardware assemblies were reused throughout. Where necessary, a few replica doors were fabricated to comply with current building code.

Contemporary freestanding casework defines food preparation areas, service counters, and a large bar in a manner that respects the existing factory aesthetic. A paint color palette of nine complimentary hues is drawn from existing painted surfaces. The space’s new purpose is animated through dimmable LED accent lighting. Transparency and opacity regulate occupancy and circulation.

The restaurants decorative “artwork” is a selection of framed archival black-and-white photographs of the original work spaces, original architectural drawings for the building, and colorful approved draft artwork from Narrow Fabric product marketing campaigns. The restaurant and café seat 252 and 54 total patrons respectively. The new venue is an important support element to the growing walkable community of West Reading/Wyomissing.